What exactly is Claude Code?

Claude Code is Anthropic's AI assistant that runs in your computer's terminal. Unlike ChatGPT (which gives you text), Claude Code directly reads files, writes code, and executes commands on your machine.

Do I need to know how to code?

No. You describe what you want in plain English. Claude Code writes all the code. You do need basic comfort with Terminal—but our [setup guide](/guides/claude-code-setup-mac) walks you through it.

How much does it cost?

$20/month for Pro (light usage), $100/month for Max 5x (daily users), or $200/month for Max 20x (power users). Most serious users end up on Max.

Is Claude Code better than ChatGPT?

Different purposes. ChatGPT is better for conversation and text generation. Claude Code is better for autonomous task execution—actually building things rather than describing them.

What can it do for non-developers?

Data analysis, spreadsheet automation, report generation, website creation, research synthesis, email drafting—essentially any task that involves manipulating files on your computer.

Claude Code runs locally on your machine. Your files stay on your computer. Prompts are sent to Anthropic's servers, like any AI tool.

What is Claude Code and Why Is Everyone Freaking Out About It?

A Google engineer admitted Claude Code did in 1 hour what her team took a year to build. Here's what's actually happening—and why you don't need to be technical to use it.

Mark Fershteyn

January 5, 2026

12 min read

Continue Learning

Step-by-Step Guide

How to Set Up Claude Code on Mac (15-Minute Guide)

Step-by-Step Guide

Claude Code Tutorial for Beginners (No Coding Required) — Complete 2026 Guide

Step-by-Step Guide

50+ Mind-Blowing Things People Are Using Claude Code For (That Have Nothing to Do With Coding)

Step-by-Step Guide

Claude Code Agents, Skills, Hooks, and MCP Explained

Ready to Master AI?

Join our self-paced AI course and learn ChatGPT, Claude, and Claude Code with hands-on training.

Live instruction
Hands-on practice
12-month community access

ENROLL NOW - AI ESSENTIALS COURSE40% Off (Early Bird)

Like what you're reading?

Get the AI Insider newsletter - actionable insights, delivered weekly.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.